National Center on Early Childhood Development, Teaching, and Learning (NCECDTL)

The National Center on Early Childhood Development, Teaching, and Learning has been awarded to ZERO TO THREE in collaboration with the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of Denver Marsico Institute for Early Learning and Literacy, Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (I-LABS) at the University of Washington, WestEd, Child Care Aware of America, and AEM Corporation. The Center is jointly administered by the Office of Head Start (OHS) and the Office of Child Care (OCC).

NCECDTL advances best practices in the identification, development, and promotion of the implementation of evidence-based child development and teaching and learning practices that are culturally and linguistically responsive and lead to positive child outcomes across early childhood programs. They also support strong professional development systems. The Center's work will include, but is not limited to: professional development for the infant, toddler, and preschool workforce; evidence-based curriculum; early learning standards; effective transitions; screening and assessment; culturally, linguistically, and age-appropriate practices; enhancing teacher-child interactions; supporting networks of infant/toddler practitioners; supporting children with disabilities (part C and part B); and using data to improve practice.

NCECDTL will ensure that early care and education programs have access to high quality T/TA, information, and materials consistent with the requirements of the Head Start Act, Head Start Program Performance Standards, the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act of 2014, and other applicable regulations. It also will serve as an intersection for the synthesis of research, data, knowledge, and experience to help inform OHS and OCC priorities. NCECDTL will be responsive to the unique needs of dual language learners, Tribal early childhood programs, and Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (MSHS) programs, in particular, as well as other diverse populations. It will use professional development strategies that support states, Tribes, and agencies in serving low-income families.